GambleAware Launches Milestone Self-Awareness App

GambleAware has rolled out a new online tool to tackle gambling harm, with a focus on young adults. The GambleAware Support Tool app could be an invaluable asset for all individuals engaging with online gambling platforms, especially 18- to 24-year-olds. According to the latest figures from the charity’s 2024 Treatment and Support Survey, this age group is especially interested in self-regulation, making the GambleAware app a perfect fit.

A New Way to Approach Harm Prevention

The new app is confidential, free, and designed for any individual who wants to control their gambling without having to access formal treatment services. Designed to fill the space between self-awareness and structured help, it provides real-time goal-setting, spending trackers, motivational reminders, and guidance tailored to the user’s risk level. 

In young adults who have used the app thus far, almost half reported wanting to save money, and more than a quarter just wanted to feel emotionally better. These discoveries on what motivates people to step away from gambling could be pivotal for developing better harm prevention solutions. GambleAware chief communications officer Alexia Clifford remarked that addiction often starts with subtle patterns that eventually escalate to unhealthy levels. 

“The GambleAware Support Tool app is designed to give people a timely insight into their gambling, with the aim of supporting their journey to reducing or quitting their activity.”

Alexia Clifford, GambleAware chief communications officer

The app was designed following the globally accepted Lower Risk Gambling Guidelines, a set of evidence-based limits devised through research involving over 60,000 participants across eight countries. These consist of limiting oneself to no more than 1% of monthly income spent on gambling, gambling on no more than four days a month, and limiting participation to two types of gambling activities.

Users Remain Completely in Control

When using the app, users input how frequently and how much they gamble. The software translates that into practical insights, revealing how they stack up against safer gambling limits and empowering them to set realistic boundaries. It doesn’t issue alerts or warnings, merely providing easy-to-read data and gentle nudges.

The GambleAware Support Tool extends beyond just data. It has educational resources, podcasts, personal stories, and reflections from others who have navigated similar challenges. There are also integrated links to additional support, such as GambleAware’s helpline and service finder tool, for those who feel they’ve reached a tipping point.

“I would be gambling on the computer from six in the evening until six in the morning, and I just was not sleeping. It’s positive being able to monitor your progress yourself and to see how well you’re doing in reducing or quitting your gambling.”

Catherine Adams, member of the GambleAware Lived Experience Council

The release of the app aligns with  GambleAware’s broader efforts to provide accessible, non-judgmental support to millions of British individuals who want to cut down on gambling but feel unsure about formal treatment. A 2023 report from the charity indicated that over 4 million adults would like to gamble less, but fewer than 10% want to get professional help.